Adolescence is characterized by rapid change, when events and experiences have significant implications and consequences for later life. As they develop, adolescents adopt new roles of social responsibility, acquire skills and access opportunities necessary for functioning in adult life. The health and, even more importantly, the knowledge, attitudes and practices of adolescents are regarded as essential factors when predicting the process of epidemiological transition of a population. The current lifestyles of adolescents, such as eating habits and reproductive behaviour, are crucial for the health and disease patterns that will be observed in the future. Nevertheless, during these formative years, adolescents are subject to many influences dominating their internal and external environment. These include: parents, teachers, peer groups, health care providers, media, and religious and cultural norms in the community. Knowledge of the significant rapid physical, mental and social changes occurring during this critical stage of life helps adolescents to absorb and adapt to these changes and enables them to avoid becoming victims of many serious illnesses.

Motivated by the urgent need bridge the gap in the knowledge of adolescents, their parents and other concerned partners, the World Health Organization Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, together with the Islamic Education, Science and Culture Organization and the Islamic Organization for Medical Sciences developed three manuals for health education of adolescents. The three manuals are addressed to priority target groups, namely: parents, teachers, health workers and media; adolescent girls; and adolescent boys. The manuals, originally published in Arabic, were widely and warmly welcomed by the participants of the intercountry workshop with partners for promoting adolescent health and development using information, education and communication, held by the Regional Office in Amman, Jordan, May 2002. The manuals were regarded as an important addition to the limited range of education materials available for promoting adolescent health and development within the sociocultural values prevailing in countries of the Eastern Mediterranean Region. The manuals were also considered as invaluable tools for advocacy with the political and religious leaders in Member States.

This publication is essential reading for everyone with interest in promoting adolescent health and development in the Eastern Mediterranean Region.